*Heatsinks are ranked according to
the 150W thermal test results column (rise over ambient temp.). Low
temperatures with low noise levels are considered best. For reference
heatsinks with variable-speed fans, only the high speed (12V) fan test
result is included in the comparison sheet; more detailed results reside
in each specific heatsink review.

The heat output from Intel processors varies widely between single
and multi-core processors, so Frostytech tests heatsinks with two thermal values that
represent the upper limits of both existing CPU families; 150W and 85W.

With a 150W heat
load applied by the Intel LGA775 version of FrostyTech's synthetic thermal test
platform, the Xigmatek HDT-S983 heatsink maintained a rise above ambient
temperature of just 19.5°C (52.7dBA). This was achieved with the fan
running at full default speed of 2800RPM. The CPU equivalent of this test
would be an Intel Core 2 Quad, Pentium D/Extreme Edition class processor.

The speed of the
92mm PWM fan on the Xigmatek HDT-S983 was then reduced to ~1200RPM, and this
time around the the test temperature held steady at 23.8°C over ambient. Noise
levels fell to 44.4dBA.

Next, the
Xigmatek HDT-S983 heatsink was tested on the Frostytech Mrk.II synthetic thermal
test platform with an 85W heat load; akin to a Core 2 Duo processor. This
resulted in a very nice 11.8°C rise over ambient at default fan speed, and
14.4°C at a reduced fan speed as previously outlined.

When faced with a 150W heat load with it's fan spinning
at full speed, Xigmatek's
HDT-S983 heatsink performs far better than the bulk of Intel and
AMD heatsinks Frostytech has tested. In both cases, this heatsink ranks within
the Top 5 heatsinks thus far, and the noise output is also quite acceptable - 'nuff
said. Recommended.

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